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Emeritus Professor John Black from the 91ɫ��Ƭ Research Centre for Integrated Transport Innovation (rCITI) explores the long history of Kobe Port in Japan and how it has changed over more than 2,000 years. The research looks at how new technology, government decisions and city development have helped transform Kobe from a small safe harbour into a modern, environmentally focused port.

Published in Urban Transitions, the paper, “Transition Phases in Kobe Port and Hinterland: From a Maritime Safe Haven to an Eco-Port,” is co-authored by John Black, Jimyoung Lee from the University of Marketing and Distribution Sciences in Kobe, and Kam Tara from Urban Research and Planning Pty Ltd.

The study looks at how Kobe Port has changed over its long history. It follows the port from ancient times to its growth as an international trading port, its opening to overseas trade in the 19th century, rebuilding after the Second World War, the growth of container shipping, land reclamation and waterfront redevelopment. Today, Kobe Port is continuing to change, with a strong focus on becoming more sustainable and reducing carbon emissions.

The research looks beyond changes to the port’s infrastructure and technology. It also examines the governments, organisations and people who made important decisions throughout Kobe Port’s history. The study shows how government policies, new ideas from other countries and key decision-makers have helped shape the port and its development.

Kobe is a good example of how a port, and its surrounding city can grow and change together Port Island and Rokko Island  was created by land reclamation, providing new areas available for port and logistics activities - as well as housing, businesses, education and public spaces. More recently, waterfront redevelopment has created new spaces and better connections between the port and the city.

The research also highlights Kobe Port’s focus on becoming more environmentally sustainable. The Port of Kobe Carbon Neutral Port Council was established in 2022, with plans to reduce carbon emissions by 2030 and 2050. Current initiatives include providing electricity to ships while they are in port, developing hydrogen facilities, and reducing emissions from port terminals, ships and vehicles.

Importantly, the study connects Kobe’s experience to broader international challenges facing ports and cities. It highlights the important role of government leadership, policy learning and technological innovation in supporting the transition towards greener urban infrastructure.

The paper demonstrates how understanding the history of transport infrastructure can provide valuable insights for future planning. As ports worldwide respond to decarbonisation, changing technologies and evolving relationships with surrounding cities, Kobe offers an important case study of how infrastructure can continually adapt to economic, social and environmental change.

Black, J., Lee, J., & Tara, K. (2026). Transition Phases in Kobe Port and Hinterland: From a Maritime Safe Haven to an Eco-Port. Urban Transitions, 100053. doi: